319: Crafting Intriguing Mysteries in the Gilded Age with Cecelia Tichi

Handwritten Beginnings and the Power of Oral Traditions in Mystery Writing

In the expansive world of writing, two elements intertwine seamlessly: the stories of the past and the characters that breathe life into them. This notion becomes clear in this episode of Authors Who Lead, where Cecilia Tichi and I delve into the intricacies of storytelling, drawing from personal and historical wellsprings of inspiration.

The Birth of Characters: Handwritten Beginnings

Cecilia Tichi, an award-winning author and professor emeritus known for her mystery crime fiction set in the Gilded Age, shares invaluable advice that resonates with both novice and seasoned writers. Cecilia prompts writers to anchor their character development in handwritten notes within a dedicated notebook before transitioning to digital formats. This tactile approach, she explains, allows for greater intimacy and connection with one’s characters, providing a solid foundation upon which their narratives stand.

The Value of Oral Tradition in Storytelling

I, particularly those nurtured through oral traditions, add another layer to the narrative fabric. I emphasize the importance of preserving these stories, which are often overlooked by mainstream historical accounts but are rich in cultural and personal significance.

We converge on the significance of reading aloud during the writing process—a practice that not only refines the rhythm and flow of the narrative but also echoes the age-old tradition of oral storytelling. Reading aloud, they argue, breathes life into the text, making it resonate more deeply with both the writer and the reader.

Personal History as a Storytelling Catalyst

Personal history, intertwined with imagination, becomes a powerful narrative tool, as I illustrate with my book, “Adventures in Cinderbottom“. Inspired by my husband’s childhood stories, I craft a series set in the Gilded Age’s red-light districts, painting a vivid picture of a bygone era. This blending of personal anecdotes with historical contexts enriches the storytelling, making it both authentic and relatable.

My commitment to illuminating forgotten or negatively portrayed histories underscores my aim to celebrate and honor those narratives. My recent book, “Gone Missing,” delves into a mystery surrounding a missing junior congresswoman, further highlighting my dedication to bringing overlooked stories to the forefront.

The Power of Stories Beyond Words

Drawing from her own experiences, Cecilia notes that writing holds inherent challenges. She shares an anecdote about a fellow writer who endured days of struggle but eventually triumphed, underscoring the persistence and resilience required in the creative process. We agree that books transcend mere words on a page; they are conduits for messages and emotions that inspire action. I encourage writers to embrace their identity as authors, urging them to focus on the impact and inspiration their stories generate rather than becoming fixated on perfection.

Navigating Complex Narratives: Plotting and Characterization

When it comes to plotting her mystery series, Cecilia Tichi anchors her process on knowing the core crime and the culprit from the outset. This clear direction enables her to construct intricate plots that engage readers from the first page to the last. Her characters, including a silver heiress and a mixologist-turned-sleuth, are meticulously crafted to navigate the labyrinthine mysteries she creates.

Using metaphors like hosting a party or captaining a vessel, Cecilia ensures the reader’s journey is memorable and worthwhile—a crucial responsibility for any author. Additionally, she offers practical advice for describing characters, recommending the use of helper books to aid in the visualization and detailing of diverse personas.

Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others

My journey to becoming a writer wasn’t without obstacles. Overcoming dyslexia, I have transformed my initial struggles into a source of motivation, inspiring others to pursue their writing ambitions despite perceived limitations. My focus on marginalized characters, such as a trans elevator operator in one of his upcoming novels, exemplifies my commitment to giving a voice to those often silenced in historical narratives.

Claiming the Title of Author

We leave listeners with a profound message: Every writer has the responsibility to make their readers’ experience rich and transformative. We encourage budding authors to claim their titles without waiting for external validation and to draw inspiration from personal histories and overlooked narratives.

In the ever-evolving landscape of writing, we remind everyone that the true power of storytelling lies not just in the written word, but in the shared human experience it conveys.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.